Project Cassandra

As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly capable, its consequences will be experienced first by people, families and communities.

Changes to employment, economic security and the meaning of work may challenge assumptions that have shaped society for generations. Increasing productivity may not necessarily translate into greater economic security if employment and household purchasing power decline. Governments may also need to reconsider how public services and social support are funded as traditional sources of revenue change.

This first part, Human and Social Transition, examines how humanity might prepare for that transition, recognising both the opportunities AI may create and the responsibilities we have towards those affected first. It considers not only how individuals can be supported through disruption, but how society might prepare to share the benefits of AI whilst protecting people's security, dignity and freedom of choice.

Holding the Hands of Those Affected First - Examines the immediate human consequences of AI-driven change and the responsibility to support people whose livelihoods, security and expectations may be disrupted.

Preparing Opportunities as Well as People - Considers why preparing individuals for technological change is insufficient unless meaningful opportunities are also available to them.

From Employment to Ownership of Time - Explores how increasingly capable AI might change the relationship between employment, income and personal freedom, potentially giving people greater control over their time.

Economic Security Through the Transition - Examines the importance of economic security as employment and traditional sources of income change, including the need to prepare systems of financial support for those affected by disruption and to consider how the benefits of increasing productivity might be shared.

A Transition Without a Finishing Line - Considers the possibility that AI-driven change may be continuous rather than a temporary adjustment with a clearly defined destination.

Freedom Without a Prescribed Purpose - Explores what greater freedom from compulsory employment might mean for individuals, without assuming that everyone should pursue the same ambitions or activities.

Contribution Without Compulsion - Examines how people might continue contributing to society through work, care, creativity and community involvement without economic necessity determining every choice.

Supporting the First Generations Through the Transition - Considers the particular responsibilities towards generations experiencing the earliest and potentially most disruptive stages of AI-driven societal change.